Robert* came into placement at Ettie Lee Youth and Family Services in December of 2008, through LA County Probation, for stealing, property damage, and for truancy (to name a few). With his poor reading skills and his numerous truancies, Robert's grades suffered and his depression came out as anger and defiance. At the time of his placement, Robert was also having trouble with his family relationships, choosing negative peers and high-risk behaviors. Robert also had trouble with following rules. To make matters worse, Robert also suffered from a severe acne problem which was causing him to fight with his peers because of the teasing that he received. Needless to say, he was having a difficulty making friends.
As he became adjusted to living away from his family in one of our Ettie Lee homes, Robert slowly became motivated to improve his behavior and responded well to all staff members. He was given a variety of services, individual and family counseling, skills to manage his emotions, tutoring and medical help for his skin. Each month we saw progress and so did he. He showed improvement in his behaviors and adjusted very well with the other boys.
Robert's reunification with his family took place in June 2009. He lives with his mother and his two siblings and also spends time with his father and step-mother. Since he has been back at home, Ettie Lee's After-Care Program staff have continued to assist him. Robert needed to complete the community service hours he started doing while at our Ettie Lee home. Working with the After-Care team, he chose a graffiti removal service. In less than two weeks he completed nearly 60 hours of community service. Additionally, the After-Care team has also helped Robert, who was reluctant at first, to get involved in a summer reading activity program sponsored by his local library. With encouragement he has found books that are tools for a better future.
When he is home, Robert tends to his chores without needing adult direction. From laundry to preparing a meal, Robert is no longer having difficulty with taking on responsibility. During the summer he joined a local youth activity center which he attends five days per week, and Robert is getting ready to start school. He would like to do well in school and is motivated to become a better reader. Robert will sign up for a tutoring program which focuses on reading proficiency.
* to protect the child's confidentiality we are not using the child's name
These are the true stories from past and current residents at Ettie Lee Youth and Family Services.
